GWINN, Mich (WZMQ) – Abel Medical Devices holds a program that helps students throughout the UP, gain some real world experience in the trades. One success story lies with Logan Whitehead, who grew up in Munising and started learning these skills in his junior year of high school. Starting his apprenticeship, Logan would drive almost 100 miles to Gwinn, learning to program these parts, and put together medical equipment. “So my grandpa owned a couple of CNC shops and tool and dye shops…one of the shops that we have up here”, said Whitehead.
Able Medical Devices holds an apprentice program teaching young students and adults. As a CNC operator, Logan does more than just fit parts together, also programs a lot of this machinery, checking every little part. “You just feel like a family. Everybody’s there for everybody and wants to help everybody”, said Whitehead.
Rather than hoping they have a job after college, these apprentices have the ability to start their job from day one. Apprentice Manager Brian Sarvello, takes part in making sure these students have more opportunities in the workforce.
He talks about a “talent pipeline”, and how being proactive in the community like Able is, can make a real difference for some of these young adults. “There is no more efficient path than an apprenticeship. We’re able to help students avoid college loan debt and most importantly earn while they learn.”, says Sarvello.
These apprenticeship opportunities may be hidden in the background, but are real avenues that students should to look for. For more information on these programs, click here.
